Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns ready for high-stakes MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns meet in a sold-out MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday, with kick-off at 6pm.

The two sides have been among the leading teams in the Betway Premiership this season and will renew their rivalry in a final that offers little to separate them.

Much of the focus before the match has centred on how Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and Mamelodi Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso will approach the contest.

Sundowns bring considerable experience to the occasion, with most of their squad accustomed to playing in high-pressure matches. Their credentials were underlined recently when they beat highly fancied Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli 2-1 in the Fifa Intercontinental Cup.

Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, have a blend of established players and less experienced members of the squad as they pursue a fifth successive MTN8 trophy.

Young players including Nkosikhona Ndaba, Sbangani Zulu, Thapelo Mokobodi, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Simphiwe Selepe, Kabelo Kgositsile and Simphiwe Masilela may be required to make an impact if they are given the opportunity.

Ouaddou said during the week that experienced figures in his dressing room would have an important role in supporting the younger players. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, defenders Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki and Deon Hotto, and midfielders Thalente Mbatha, Makhehleni Makhaula, Oswin Appollis and Kabelo Dlamini are among those expected to provide leadership.

Makhaula believes Orlando Pirates are ready to complete their pursuit of another trophy.

“I am sensing a win because the guys have really shown up with the work rate. I am sensing us lifting the trophy,” he said, predicting that the Buccaneers would claim a fifth consecutive MTN8 title.

Cardoso has a group of international players at his disposal, including Ronwen Williams, Thapelo Morena, Grant Kekana, Marcelo Allende, Tashreeq Matthews, Nuno Santos, Themba Zwane, Brayan Leon and Arthur Sales.

There is still uncertainty over whether Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas will be available for Sundowns. The trio suffered knocks while playing for Bafana Bafana last week, and their fitness will be clearer closer to kick-off.

Sundowns attacker Matthews acknowledged the challenge posed by the defending champions but said his side would focus on taking its chances.

“They are defending champions, have a good and strong team, and they know how to win this tournament. We just have to go out there and fight, and whoever is going to take their chances is probably going to win,” he said.